The Louisiana School Boards Association (LSBA) has raised concerns over the proposed LA GATOR Scholarship Program, created in HB 745, citing potential issues with accountability, standards, and special education services.
The program, which aims to establish universal education savings accounts (ESAs), has drawn criticism from LSBA for its lack of accountability compared to public schools. While public school students are required to take state-mandated standardized tests in several subjects, including Math, English, Science, and Social Studies, LA GATOR students would not be subject to these same requirements. This omission, according to LSBA, would hinder the ability to make valid comparisons between the quality of public education and LA GATOR-funded education.
Another area of concern highlighted by LSBA is the absence of a requirement for LA GATOR schools and providers to teach state content standards. While public schools are mandated to adhere to these standards, which are approved by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), the LA GATOR program would allow for “maximum freedom” in educational provision, potentially deviating from established state policies.
LSBA also criticized the program for its treatment of special education services. Public schools are legally obligated to provide necessary special education services and accommodations, with failure to do so resulting in federal court orders and state sanctions. In contrast, LA GATOR schools and providers would not be required to offer these services, effectively excluding students who need them from participating in the program.
In a statement, LSBA emphasized that using public taxpayer dollars for nonpublic education without proper accountability, failing to require the teaching of state-mandated educational content standards, and excluding special education students are fundamentally wrong practices.
The LSBA, founded in 1938, is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving as a resource for public school boards across Louisiana. Its mission includes providing leadership, service, and support for school boards while advocating for all students with a collective voice.